Folding electric scooters are here to save the day – or at least save you from being fashionably late. In our fast-paced world, these machines are your sidekicks to easily zip through traffic. Plus, their emission-free operation and ergonomic designs make them a symbol of sustainability and convenience.

But like any automobile, scooters aren’t a one-size-fits-all affair. Different models come with different features that can impact your riding big time.

In our comprehensive guide, we explore all the crucial features you need to evaluate before purchasing your folding electric scooter. Understanding these features will help you make a better and more informed decision.

Foldability

Foldability is the adult version of origami. It’s a simple and fun mechanism yet so important for scooters. Scooters use different mechanisms—buttons, levers, or screws—to fold the stem. However, the basic principle is the same: press and hold the clasp and slowly lower it down.

Scooters fold in two main ways. One, the entire front part, including the wheels, folds down, and second, the stem folds over the deck. Whichever style you settle for, ensure you can fold your scooter quickly and effortlessly.

Some models also fold their handlebars to further save on more storage space. It’s also a nice way to keep the handlebars protected during transit.

Weight Capacity

The scooter’s weight will directly impact how user-friendly and portable it is. The lighter it is, the easier it will be to carry when you are not riding. You won’t be grumpy when holding it on public transport or moving up the stairs.

Still on weight, you want to consider something that will handle you comfortably. If you’re below 150 lbs (70 kg), no worries. Most scooters will handle this limit. But still, your grocery bags, rucksacks, and other loads will substantially add to the net weight.

Most folding electric scooters for adults have a weight limit of 220 lbs (100 kg), while premium models hit the 330 lbs (150 kg) mark. Then there are heavy-duty electric scooters that support heavy riders.

Battery Life and Range

Your scooter’s range and battery life are like life points in a video game. The more you have, the more quests you can complete. The battery capacity of your scooter is measured in watt-hours (Wh) and will indicate how much power it can deliver over an hour.

Most scooters have a battery capacity of between 150 to 750, while longer-range scooters hit the 3000th mark. The bigger the battery size, the longer its range (how far it can go on a single charge). Longer ranges are useful if you plan on longer rides.

Motor Power and Performance

Every electric scooter has a motor. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be considered electric. Scooters come with one or two motors which determine whether they are single-wheel drive or dual-drive.

Your scooter’s motor power determines how quickly it will accelerate and, consequently, its performance. The performance is a harmony between engineering finesse, motor power, comfort levels, safety, and user experience.

Here are a few standard controls found in all-electric scooters:

• Power button: Normally found beside the screen and will turn the scooter on or off.
• Throttle: Used to speed up and engage the motor.
• Display: This is the main screen found in the cockpit’s middle.
• Brake Lever: Engages the front and rear brakes.
• Mode Switch: Switches between gears and controls the riding modes.

Top Speed

Speed is the ingredient that adds a bit of excitement to your scooter adventures. Today's average top speed of electric scooters is 25 mph (40 kph). But the fastest electric scooters can hit a top speed of 60 mph. sounds unbelievable, but it’s true. The Yume X11 Stand-Up Electric Scooter is an excellent example.

The speed of an electric scooter will depend heavily on the rider’s weight, battery level, tire size, weather, and road conditions, among other factors.

Be cautious when hitting the top speeds. Ensure you are within the local speed limits and comfortable enough to handle the thrill. If anything, you are better off arriving late but alive.

Tire Type

Standard folding electric scooters will feature two wheels, the front and rear. Some mobility devices have three wheels in total, but these are mostly designed for the elderly or those with mobility issues.

Electric scooters have two types of tires: pneumatic or air-filled and solid or airless tires. Pneumatic tires are the standard tire type used in all automobiles. They offer better shock absorption and traction and are normally faster. But they also require a lot of maintenance.

Solid tires are the new kid in the industry. They’re slowly gaining popularity in small automobiles and scooters. While they don’t require any maintenance at all, these tires aren’t as comfortable as pneumatic.

Braking System

Safety is paramount in every electric scooter, regardless of its price range. And the braking system is the primary safety feature. The quality and type of brakes will vary a lot depending on the model and price of the electric scooter.

Electric scooters have different types of brakes: hydraulic, semi-hydraulic, cable disk, regenerative, drum, and rear fender foot operated. Hydraulic is the best type, although it is expensive and requires a lot of maintenance.

All in all, you want to ensure that your scooter’s brake system is highly reliable and responsive. This is especially important when riding downhill or at high speeds.

Lights

Still on safety, lights are another important—yet underrated—safety feature of electric scooters. They serve two main purposes: illuminate the path ahead and notify pedestrians and other motorists of your presence.

Therefore, it’s essential that your scooter has sufficient headlight and other signal forms. Most models will also include a brake light, rear light, and turn signals at the sides of their stem and deck.

More expensive scooter models will feature flashing LED lights.

Suspension and Shock Absorption

Suspension is, unfortunately, more of a luxury than a key feature in foldable electric scooters. Most cheap models rarely feature any suspension. And if they do, they are of a low-end type that they barely become effective.

A suspension system (both front and rear) will improve your comfort and stability, especially when riding on rough or uneven surfaces. There are three main types of suspension systems.

• Hydraulic is usually the best but the most expensive.
• Rubber is the least effective, suited for smaller scooters, and, expectedly, the cheapest.
• Spring suspension is the most popular found in most scooter models.

Build Quality and Durability

Electric scooters constructed using quality and sturdy materials are normally expensive upfront but a worthy investment that will last you years. The craftsmanship, engineering, and materials all contribute to how well the scooter holds up over time.

Materials such as aluminum and reinforced plastic are strong, lightweight, and will brave the elements and rigors of daily use. A durable and well-constructed scooter makes every cent spent on it worth it.

Additional Features

Warranty and Support

Your scooter’s warranty is its pillar of reliability. It is the manufacturer’s commitment to the durability and quality of its product.

The warranty ensures that you are entitled to replacements and repairs (at no extra cost to you) if your scooter incurs any malfunctions or defects within a specified period. Most scooters have a warranty of 1 to 2 years.

Equally important is customer support. If the manufacturer’s support is anything like Mobility Paradise’s, you can rely on them to promptly assist with any issues.

On top of competitive prices, our customer support makes us one of the most reliable sources for all your mobility needs.

Waterproofing

Wouldn’t it be nice to know that you can ride your electric scooter in the rain or water-logged areas with little repercussions? While the materials used to construct scooters are generally waterproof, their batteries aren’t.

Your scooter needs an Ingress Protection (IP) rating of at least 55 to be safe from water and dust. Here’s a chart illustrating a scooter’s IP ratings.

Ready to Roll?

These compact marvels are the getaways to a new era of urban mobility. Their motors roar with power, and their foldability defies physics. Each feature is important and plays a vital role in ensuring your journey is as smooth as possible.

At Mobility Paradise, we’ve got a wide selection of electric folding scooters. Remember, the perfect scooter aligns with your needs, aspirations, and lifestyle.

Contact us, and we’ll help you find your ideal electric scooter.